The Source highlights South West food-to-go opportunity
The Source trade show will spotlight the South West’s food-to-go opportunity when it returns to Westpoint, Exeter, on February 2 and 3, 2027.
The show already brings together producers, catering equipment specialists and foodservice suppliers. Its 2027 campaign will highlight businesses helping hospitality, retail, forecourt and convenience operators develop their food-to-go offer.
Lumina Intelligence forecasts the UK food-to-go market will reach £24.9 billion in 2026, while IGD forecasts £27.9 billion. Growth is increasingly being driven by higher spend per visit, premium add-ons and stronger propositions.
Quality is also becoming increasingly important, with consumers seeking better ingredients, health credentials and trusted brands.
The South West offers a distinctive opportunity, with food-to-go demand spanning travel routes, tourism, independent retail, farm shops, cafés, forecourts and visitor attractions. Regional produce and quality-led products also provide opportunities for businesses looking to create differentiated offers.
Mike Anderson, Managing Director of Hale Events, said: “Food-to-go is no longer defined purely by commuter hubs and city centres. Across the South West, farm shops, forecourts, convenience stores, cafés, visitor attractions and hospitality businesses are all looking for high-quality products that can be enjoyed on the move.”
Food-to-go opportunities will feature across The Source’s pre-show marketing, editorial content and exhibitor promotion, highlighting relevant businesses across bakery, deli, dairy, drinks, packaging and catering equipment.
The campaign aims to help buyers identify relevant products and suppliers before visiting, while giving exhibitors an opportunity to showcase their food-to-go credentials.
The Source returns to Westpoint, Exeter on Tuesday 2 and Wednesday 3 February 2027. Visit thesourcetradeshow.co.uk for more information.